The Secret World We Know All Too Well

Justin Hauner and his friend, Ben Fucik, were in a hurry. Their flight home from San Diego, California, to Appleton, Wisconsin, was taking off soon, and they had to get to the airport in time.

However, Hauner had a change in plans that had them in a race against the clock: He had to ship the collectibles he had purchased on his trip back to Wisconsin.

"I had so much stuff that I bought that I didn't have enough room to get into my luggage," he said.

Fortunately, Hauner was able to send his toys, many of which were "Comic-Con exclusives," back home in enough time for them to return the rental car and board the plane on time.Comic-Con International

It was one year ago and Hauner's first time at Comic-Con International in San Diego, the largest comic book and popular arts convention in the world. He had heard about it for years. When he finally made the pilgramage, he was immediately hooked, especially when he laid eyes on all of the exclusive toys he could pick up.

San Diego Comic-Con may have celebrities, video games and colorful costumes. But for people like Hauner, a big draw are the collectible toys. These Comic-Con exclusives can't be found in Wal-Mart, and the lines start forming for them this Wednesday night.